January is National Blood Donor Month
Did you know that every two seconds in the United States, someone needs blood? Or that one pint of blood can save three lives? Throughout the month of January, CareFocus Companion Services is supporting the American Red Cross in their celebration of the contributions of millions of blood donors across the country making the commitment to help those who are in need of blood. Every year since 1970, blood collection organizations have honored people who roll up their sleeves to help save lives by designating January as National Blood Donor Month.
As we pay tribute to these unsung heroes, consider the following facts :
• More than 38,000 blood donations are needed every day.
• The blood type most often requested by hospitals is Type O.
• More than one million new people are diagnosed with cancer each year. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatment.
• A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood.
• Only 38% of the American population is eligible to give blood, and of those, only 8% do.
If you or your loved ones have not donated blood recently, make it one of your resolutions for 2010 to become a regular donor. Donating blood is a safe, simple, four-step process, consisting of registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation, and refreshments. Some simple ways in which you can join CareFocus Companion Services in celebrating National Blood Donor Month include:
• Donate blood and encourage others to do the same.
• Talk to your loved ones about the ways that donating blood helps others.
• Volunteer at a local blood drive.
• Visit the American Red Cross’s Web site to:
- Read donor stories
- See the impact your own donation could make
- Play fun games
- And more!
By donating blood regularly, you not only make a vital contribution to your local community’s blood supply, but you can also help save a life.